Lieutenant Governor Gavin Newsom today issued the following statement following New York State Legislature’s vote on same-sex marriage:

“For the past few weeks, as we have watched the events unfold in Albany, millions of us from around the country became temporary New Yorkers as we called, facebooked, and tweeted members of the legislature. While the victory achieved today will directly benefit New Yorkers in the short-term, we collectively recognize that legislating marriage equality within state borders is only the first step when we are attempting to correct a larger injustice.

“I thank Governor Andrew Cuomo for pursuing a course to this vote with dogged determination. His courage of conviction should serve as an example of what we can accomplish when we refuse to accept anything less than full equality. And I congratulate members of the New York State legislature, especially those who based their vote on their conscience rather than on party platform.

“The fight for marriage equality has been an ongoing battle, but one I believe we should never stop fighting. On this historic day, we honor all the same-sex families in New York who now have an opportunity to participate in something many of us take for granted: to have their commitment and love recognized by the state they live in.

“But at the end of the day, this fight isn't just about the actual rights that come with marriage, this fight is about achieving the dignity that comes with being legitimately recognized as full and complete citizens.

“I am proud to be witnessing this significant moment in history and I look forward to the day when this vote is modeled across the country.”